When it comes to buying a used car, reliability is often the top priority for most Americans. According to a recent ranking by Consumer Reports, Toyota and Lexus are leading the pack in terms of dependability, making them the most reliable used-car brands in the market today.

Consumer Reports, a nonprofit research and advocacy group, conducted its first-ever ranking of 26 car brands, with Lexus and Toyota taking the top two spots. Following them in third place is Mazda, another brand known for its consistent performance. These brands have earned their reputation through years of delivering vehicles that not only perform well when new but continue to do so as they age.

Steven Elek, a senior automotive data analyst at Consumer Reports, attributes this success to the brands’ conservative approach to redesigns. “Brands like Lexus and Toyota have a history of conservative redesigns, incrementally improving their entire product line, rather than introducing many all-new systems,” Elek explained. This methodical approach seems to pay off, as the data shows that vehicles from these brands remain reliable over time.

Acura and Honda also made it into the top five, reinforcing the strong showing by Japanese automakers. However, not all brands performed as well. Tesla, Dodge, and Chrysler were ranked near the bottom, placing 24th, 25th, and 26th, respectively.

While the overall brand rankings provide a good starting point, it’s important to note that reliability can vary significantly within a brand’s lineup. For example, the 2018 and 2019 Chevrolet Equinox models were found to have above-average reliability, yet the entire 2014-2019 Chevrolet Silverado generation lagged behind with below-average ratings. Elek advises, “It’s best to check the reliability ratings for each model year. Making assumptions can prove both costly and inconvenient.”

For those on a tight budget, Consumer Reports offers specific recommendations. The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze is highlighted for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and efficient turbocharged engine, making it a solid choice for under $10,000. If your budget stretches to $15,000, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra stands out for its user-friendly controls and impressive fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the 2018 Honda HR-V is recommended for those seeking a reliable SUV in the same price range.

At Automotive Addicts, we recognize the value of Consumer Reports’ insights but also approach them with a healthy dose of skepticism. While their data-driven analysis is undoubtedly valuable, some of their vehicle suggestions, like the Chevrolet Cruze, may not always align with what we consider the best choices. Our extensive experience in reviewing a wide range of vehicles sometimes leads us to different conclusions about what models truly deliver the best value and reliability in the real world.